Suzuki has revealed its new GSX-S1000GT sports touring model, which will hit local showrooms in March alongside its naked bike sibling, priced from $19,090 rideaway.
At this price, the new sports tourer will rival the likes of the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX, which is currently sold from $16,999 plus on-road costs, as well as other segment heavyweights like the BMW R 1250 RS ($24,995) and KTM 1290 Super Duke GT ($31,695).
The Suzuki GSX-S1000GT is based on the brand’s recently updated GSX-S1000 naked bike platform, but adds a large fairing and windscreen, long-haul ergonomics and an array of touring-friendly features.
Distinguishing the GSX-S1000GT from its stablemates is a quirky twin LED front end with a tall touring windscreen and sharply styled bodywork.
Towards the rear, the GT gets a new rider and pillion seat complete with grab rails and luggage mounts, and tall-and-wide bars are equipped for a more neutral riding position.
The GT retains the same 112kW/106Nm 999cc inline four-cylinder engine as the GSX-S1000 upon which it is based, and also carries over the naked bike’s KYB suspension and Brembo braking systems.
Most likely due to the new bodywork, the GT is 12 kilograms heavier than its naked bike sibling at 226 kilograms (wet), while fuel capacity (19L) and seat height (810mm) remain unchanged.
The Suzuki GSX-S1000GT also carries over Suzuki’s latest electronics suite, coming standard with an up/down quickshifter, a 6.5-inch TFT dash, cruise control, advanced traction control and selectable power modes.
Three colour options will be available from launch, including Metallic Triton Blue, Metallic Reflective Blue and Glass Sparkle Black.
With a focus on road touring, the Suzuki GSX-S1000GT comes standard with Dunlop SportMax Roadsport2 tyres, and rubber-set controls for comfort.
Suzuki will offer a range of optional accessories including heated grips, and hard luggage large enough to accommodate full face helmets.
Braking is managed by four-piston Brembo monoblocs squeezing dual 310mm discs at the front, while a single-piston Nissin setup is matched with a 220mm disc at the rear.
With these features, and at a competitive price-point, the new Suzuki sports tourer should be well positioned to compete with Kawasaki’s similar offering in the Ninja 1000SX.
For reference, the current Ninja 1000SX uses a 1043cc inline four-cylinder engine that produces 104kW and 111Nm.
Spencer has a keen eye for hard news, and does some of his best living on deadline day. He loves more than anything to travel on his motorcycle, and is adamant that Melbourne Bitter is a world-class lager. He also knows how to operate the big computery thing in the office. By night, Spencer plays guitar with Melbourne punk outfit LOUTS.
I have a ‘18 BMW Grand America… definitely a sports tourer! There is certainly a niche for these types of bike. At this price it’s going to be a love affair for lots of folks! Nice edition to the 1K line!